Judith “Judy” Karen Willhite, age 75, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away on November 19, 2023, at home surrounded by family.
Judy was born to Milton and Maurine Large on March 21, 1948, in Kansas City, MO. She was raised in Kansas City, MO and graduated from Southeast High School. Judy was united in marriage to Chet Willhite on September 7, 1968, in Kansas City, MO. Judy and Chet shared 55 years of marriage. The couple were blessed with 2 daughters, Melissa and Karen.
Judy was employed as a Registered Nurse with Cox Medical Center in the Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit for 30 years. Before working for Cox Medical Center, Judy worked 10 years at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas and Ochsner Health Center, New Orleans, LA. When not working, she had many interests and pastimes including camping, playing music, singing, and making jewelry. Nothing, however, brought her more fulfillment than being a mom to her daughters and her fur babies. Judy will be remembered as incredible nurse, she will always be remembered for her calm nature.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Maurine Large and one sister, Linda Heitz and her husband Virgil. She is survived by her husband Chet Willhite; 2 daughter Melissa Willhite and spouse Susan Howard and Karen Johns and spouse Patrick; one step-granddaughter, Sierra Tayman-Johns; and a host of family and friends.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Monday, November 27, 2023, at 5:00 PM at Greenlawn South Funeral Home with a visitation to follow.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Judy’s name to the Children’s Miracle Network.